On January 14, 2023, 14-year-old Evan Wessling and his father, 38-year-old Preston Wessling, were tragically killed in a shooting outside their residence on Airport Road in Tow, Texas. Authorities from the Llano County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene after receiving a 911 call reporting gunshots at approximately 4:49 a.m. Both father and son were found deceased in the driveway from multiple gunshot wounds.
Earlier that night, at around 1:07 a.m., a separate report of gunfire in the same area had been made to law enforcement, though the connection between the two incidents remains unclear. The investigation was conducted by the Llano County Sheriff's Office in conjunction with the Texas Rangers and the Llano County District Attorney's Office.
Two suspects, 19-year-olds Kyler Nathaniel Allen and Jordan Eric Ostrander, were arrested on January 16, 2023. They were charged with capital murder and held without bail in the Llano County Jail. Officials stated that the suspects were acquainted with the victims, though specific details regarding their relationship or a potential motive have not been disclosed publicly.
Evan Wessling was a freshman at Burnet High School, remembered by classmates and teachers as a friendly and well-liked student. His sudden and tragic death, alongside that of his father, deeply impacted the Burnet school community. Grief counselors were made available to help students and staff cope with the loss.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Wessling family created a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and raise awareness of the devastating event. Community members, friends, and extended family have expressed their sorrow and solidarity, sharing fond memories of Evan and Preston and offering support to those left grieving.
As the case moves forward, the Tow and Burnet communities remain united in seeking justice for Evan and his father, mourning their loss while calling for answers in this senseless act of violence.
